Constructing Critical Digital Literacy Among Housewives in Responding to Hoaxes, Online Fraud and Artificial Intelligence

Abstract

The rapid expansion of digital communication technologies has increased public exposure to misinformation, online fraud, and AI-generated deceptive content, posing serious challenges for digitally vulnerable groups, particularly housewives. This study examines the effectiveness of a community-based digital literacy empowerment program in enhancing participants' awareness and critical understanding of hoaxes, online fraud, and AI-generated misinformation. A qualitative descriptive approach supported by pre-test and post-test assessments was employed through direct educational socialization involving housewives. Data were collected using observations, documentation, and pre-test/post-test instruments to measure participants' knowledge before and after the intervention. The findings reveal significant improvements in participants' ability to verify information, identify AI-generated manipulation, and critically evaluate digital content. Interpreted through Berger and Luckmann's Social Construction Theory, the results demonstrate that critical digital awareness is socially constructed through educational intervention. Following the program, all participants reported greater caution in sharing online information and recognized AI's potential to generate deceptive content, while also showing improved ability to distinguish authentic from manipulated materials. The study concludes that community-based digital literacy empowerment effectively strengthens critical digital awareness and provides a practical strategy for reducing the risks of hoaxes, online fraud, and AI-driven misinformation among vulnerable social groups.